HASSAN AND PAWSOX BATTLE THE YANKEES

If Tuesdays’ game between the PawSox and Scranton was any indication, this is going to be some stretch drive. The two teams atop the North Division battled it out and the PawSox took it 9-7. Pawtucket jumped out to a 9-0 lead and hung on for dear life. Believe it or not, with 20 games remaining on the 2012 schedule, there are 8 left against the Yankees. That includes a doubleheader on Wednesday night at McCoy. It’s a two game swing every night, meaning if the PawSox lost last night, they’d trail SWB by three games. Instead, it’s just one game. It’s shaping up to be a fun final couple of weeks. And by the way, just for good measure, the PawSox close out the regular season with 4 at home against the Yankees. Talk about drama. There are a couple of very familiar faces on the Scranton roster. Manny Delcarmen and Darnell McDonald.

One name that has become familiar to Sox fans, is Alex Hassan. The native of Quincy Mass. has had a very good first season in Triple A. He offered his thoughts. “It’s been pretty good. I’ve definitely had some ups and downs but this has been the most challenging level for me so far. It has forced me to make adjustments for the better. I’ve had my struggles, but those are what make you better in the long run.” Hassan got off to a slow start in April, going 0 for his first 17. “It was really tough, but that’s the name of this game. It’s a game built on failure, especially if you’re a hitter. There are going to be some tough times in this game, but that’s ok. Everyone goes through it. It’s tough but if you’re going to play baseball, you have to accept it and persevere.”

When enduring a tough stretch, Hassan says there is really only one person that can help him. “It’s me. A lot of people will say stuff to try to help, but ultimately it’s me that has to make the decisions and have a good attitude. It’s hard to do. The coaches here are really supportive, but it’s in your hands. Ultimately, it’s up to you.”

Hassan adds that he tries to be a good teammated to those who have followed him up from AA Portland. “Just be supportive. They’re all good players, so I don’t need to help them with that part. We’re always there for each other.” That could come in handy as they round the final turn.